By Scrubs Magazine Exclusive
In a literary landscape brimming with tales of redemption, heroism, and triumph over adversity, Michael Harbron’s debut novel, “An Interview with the Devil,” offers a refreshing, albeit haunting, perspective. Harbron, a name soon to be synonymous with contemporary fiction’s boldest voices, has crafted a narrative that dares to explore the profound and often unsettling questions of faith, morality, and the human condition.
The Genesis of a Remarkable Talent
Michael Harbron’s journey to authorship is as compelling as the story he tells. After the tragic loss of his father to a horrific suicide, Harbron sought solace and understanding through the written word. His grief became the catalyst for a creative process that birthed a novel resonating with existential inquiry and philosophical depth.
“My father had a wonderful life, he was living it just the way he wanted to, but underneath the consistent smile, there was a struggle none of us knew about. I tried to make sense of his death, and came to terms that it was a decision he made and it was final. I know this sounds controversial, but I’m not even sure I could have stopped or helped him. He made his mind up. I think what was more horrifying was how he did it, he stepped in front of a train. But he didn’t just jump, he waited for the train to approach a point where it couldn’t slow down, then he stood and braced himself for impact. It was fascinating to me, what was going through his mind. I still can’t make sense of it, and so I channeled my energy into writing. He always told me to write more.” (Sic)
A Synopsis of Shadows and Light
“An Interview with the Devil” centers on Joseph Banbury, a man whose life is anything but ordinary. Banbury, the author of a controversial book titled “The Skeptic,” which critiques organized religion as mankind’s greatest deception, finds himself at a crossroads, seeking inspiration for his next work. It is at this moment of creative impasse that the Devil himself visits Banbury, revealing a cosmic wager between God and Satan. This wager hinges on whether humanity requires the structure of religion to maintain order, as God believes, or if, as the Devil contends, free will and personal paths will ultimately prevail.
Through this divine confrontation, Banbury’s own origins come into sharp focus. Unbeknownst to him, his mother, Joyce, made a fateful pact with the Devil 35 years prior, trading her unborn son’s soul to save her dying husband. This revelation propels Banbury on a journey of self-discovery, challenging his beliefs and reshaping his destiny.
A New Theological Narrative
Harbron’s novel is not just a story; it is a theological exploration wrapped in the guise of fiction. “An Interview with the Devil” delves into the essence of faith and skepticism, juxtaposing divine order against the chaos of free will. Joseph Banbury’s evolution from a disillusioned skeptic to a man who performs a live resurrection to prove his otherworldly encounter underscores the novel’s central themes of belief, proof, and transformation.
The novel’s climactic moment—where Banbury resurrects a person live on air—serves as a pivotal point, turning public opinion and leading him to establish his own church and religion. This bold act shifts the narrative from personal introspection to a broader societal impact, questioning the very foundations of faith and leadership.
Harbron’s Emergence as a Literary Force
“An Interview with the Devil” marks Michael Harbron’s striking entrance into the literary world. His ability to weave a narrative that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant sets him apart from his contemporaries. Harbron’s personal experiences with loss and his search for meaning imbue his writing with an authenticity that speaks to readers on a deeply personal level.
In a time where literature often shies away from confronting the darker aspects of existence, Harbron embraces these themes, offering readers a mirror to their own fears, doubts, and hopes. His debut novel is not just a book; it is an invitation to engage with the profound questions that define the human experience.
Conclusion
“An Interview with the Devil” is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that challenges conventional wisdom and explores the depths of human nature. Michael Harbron’s emergence as a writer of note is a testament to the power of storytelling as a means of navigating personal tragedy and existential uncertainty. As readers, we can only anticipate what Harbron will tackle next, knowing that his unique voice and perspective will continue to illuminate the shadows of our own lives.
For those ready to embark on a journey of faith, doubt, and revelation, “An Interview with the Devil” awaits. Michael Harbron’s debut is not just the beginning of his career—it is a new chapter in the world of contemporary fiction. The book is the first in a trilogy, part one and its sequel Resurrection is available now at Amazon.
Get your copy here!
Interview with the Devil https://a.co/d/e3ZL6hR
